Cauliflower Clam Chowder

Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings

Description

This healthier take on clam chowder has fewer calories and less saturated fat than the original and puréed cauliflower and potatoes keep it nice and creamy.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 slices turkey bacon, chopped
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup sliced celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 medium russet potato, peeled and chopped
4 cups coarsely chopped cauliflower florets
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup low-fat milk
1 (10 ounce) can whole baby clams, drained
1 teaspoon lemon zest
ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh celery leaves

Directions

1 Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add turkey bacon and cook until crisp, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving drippings in the saucepan.
2 Add onion and celery to the saucepan; cook over medium heat until onion is translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic; cook, stirring, 30 seconds more. Add chicken broth and potato; bring to a boil.
3 Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. Add cauliflower and salt; simmer, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are just tender, about 5 minutes.
4 Working in 2 batches, transfer cooked vegetable mixture to a blender. Add milk and blend until very smooth, about 2 minutes.
5 Stir mixture back into the saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer to heat through, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in clams and lemon zest.
6 Sprinkle servings with pepper, bacon, and celery leaves.